Treatment of folliculitis with monochromatic excimer light (308 nm).
OBJECTIVE
308-nm excimer light has been reported to be safe and effective in the treatment of chronic skin diseases. The aim of the study was to prove the efficacy of 308-nm monochromatic excimer light in the treatment of recalcitrant and antibiotic-resistant folliculitis.


METHODS
Eight patients affected with folliculitis were enrolled and treated twice weekly with the 308-nm excimer light. The follow-up was 12 weeks from the end of the treatment.


RESULTS
A mean number of 13 sessions (range 10-20) was performed with increasing dosage according to the patient's photo-type and response. Remission, in terms of number and infiltration of papulopustular elements, was achieved in all patients after 4-16 therapeutic sessions. At the end of the follow-up period, recurrence of folliculitis was observed in 2 patients.


CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that the 308-nm excimer light is a valid therapeutic option for the treatment of resistant forms of folliculitis especially in difficult-to-treat areas.
Nisticò
Steven P
SP
Department of Dermatology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.
Saraceno
Rosita
R
Carboni
Isabella
I
Chimenti
Sergio
S
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005499:Folliculitis / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D006801:Humans; D054018:Lasers, Excimer / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D028022:Low-Level Light Therapy; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D016896:Treatment Outcome